Destination guide
Thakur Dighi (Khan Jahan Ali's Tank)
ঠাকুর দিঘি
This huge tank beside the mazar is not just a water reservoir — it carries Bagerhat's most talked-about story. In this saline land Khan Jahan Ali dug the dighi for sweet water, and his released crocodiles lived in it for generations. 'Kala Pahar' and 'Dhala Pahar', as the crocodiles were called by hereditary name, were the site's biggest draw — a heritage of some six hundred years. But after a recent child's death, the authorities removed the last crocodile, Dhala Pahar, to the Khulna wildlife rescue centre — locals say people feel both relief and grief. The preserved crocodile skin can still be seen in the Bagerhat museum.
History & significance
Legend says each of Khan Jahan Ali's 360 companions dug one tank, and Thakur Dighi is the largest of them. Size estimates differ — some say 180 acres, others 600 bigha. Many cite the historian Satish Chandra Mitra: Khan Jahan Ali released two crocodiles as 'guards' to raise water from the depths. Every female crocodile of the line was named Dhala Pahar, every male Kala Pahar — the names passed down the lineage.
How to get there
It sits within the mazar complex — you reach it as part of any mazar visit. The ghatla and ghats are paved and the walking paths are good.
Entry fee
৳0 · traveller-reported
No ticket needed to visit.
Opening hours & best time
Open through the day, following the mazar complex's schedule.
Best time
Many say the dighi looks best in dawn and afternoon light.
Traveller tips
The crocodile is gone for now, but don't leave children unattended at the water's edge — it is deep, and the tradition may return.
Many devotees believe the water heals — these are beliefs, not verified claims; hear them respectfully.
Find the crocodile graves beside the bathing ghatla — the last traces of the tradition.
Don't drop food waste around — use the bins provided.